Sensitising depiction of crimes

Back home after a hectic day,  TV remote is the first thing that the hand reaches out for, in order to relax. But in a gory reminder of the deteriorating intolerance levels in society around us, gruesome scenes from popular crime-based programmes often stare back.

Given the increasing numbers of incidents of acid attacks now, the hottest topic on these shows is acid attacks! One after the other, the crime shows have been airing dramatised versions of acid attacks on women which has irked viewers to file complaints against them. This has resulted in the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) asking channels to be more sensitive when dealing with content depicting acid attacks.

Holding broadcasters equally responsible, the Council mentioned that the issue needs immediate attention so that channels effectively mitigate the overwhelming implications of such depictions.

In an advisory issued to all channels, the BCCC mentioned having received several complaints. Which could be true when one watches certain crime shows, which tend to exaggerate the real incident in order to make it saleable.

But everyone is the same. “I have no hesitation in saying that when we started Crime Patrol, we were the only programme and had no benchmark,” shares Anup Soni, presenter of the highly popular show. “The rest which have followed might be insensitive but our approach is to show not just the case but to beware people too.”

Recently, Crime Patrol narrated stories which were far removed from actual crime but instead showcasing victory of good over evil. “It was our intention to show that there are good things happening in society as well. Like a father donating his kidney to a stranger whom he had met in a bus! Many people questioned that too, so should we stop that?” questions Anup, while assuring that his show takes care of graphic representation.

This is supported by Sonali Mukherjee, an acid attack victim and has been part of one such crime-based show. “The programme team was extremely supportive and went into detailed investigation of facts before airing it. Infact it is only due to my appearance on a crime-based show that I was able to garner love and affection of the general public. It made me raise money for my surgery too,” says Sonali adding that dramatisation of real acid attacks brings alive the pain and agony that the victim has gone through but, “in any case we are dying each day. Why doesn’t the government issue directives on more grave issues rather than this and stop sale of acid,” she questions.

Anup too enquires as to why doesn’t the Council, “show some sensitivity and ask the government to pass more stringent laws for acid attackers?” Touché.